Friends, if spring sparks your wanderlust, Seoul delivers in full bloom. Think pastel canopies over riverside paths, gentle breezes off the Han River, and lively street performances.

The star of the season is Yeouido—Seoul’s riverside business district that transforms into a blossom playground—plus a handful of nearby spots perfect for a one- or two-day spring escape.

Why Spring

Peak blossoms usually arrive in early to mid-April, with azaleas and magnolias trailing close behind. Daytime highs hover around 54–64°F (12–18°C), ideal for long walks and picnics. Book accommodation 3–4 weeks early; spring weekends fill fast.

Top Spots

Yeouido Yunjung-ro: the famous “cherry blossom tunnel” along the National Assembly fence.

Namsan paths: blossom-lined trails with broad city views.

Kyung Hee University: romantic campus roads framed by blooms.

Changgyeonggung Palace: petals draping historic courtyards.

Ilsan Lake Park: vast lakeside circuits with spring flower beds.

Yeouido Highlights

Stroll Yunjung-ro’s 1.7 km canopy, then wander into Yeouido Park for lawns, ponds, and quiet paths. Continue to the Han River lawns near Yeouinaru for sunset picnics and skyline photos. On bloom nights, illuminated trees add a soft, festive glow.

Festival Guide

The Yeouido Spring Flower Festival typically runs in early to mid-April. Expect street performances, photo zones, and evening lights. It’s free to attend; go early morning (7–9 AM) for fewer crowds, or weekdays after 8 PM for gentler foot traffic. Portable restrooms and first-aid tents are set up along the route.

Getting There

National Assembly Station (Line 9), Exit 1 or 6: closest to Yunjung-ro.

Yeoinaru Station (Line 5), Exit 1: best for river lawns and bike rentals.

Yeouido Station (Line 5/9), Exit 2: good central access.

Base subway fare is about $1.20 with a transit card (card about $2).

Easy Activities

Snap the blossom tunnel on Yunjung-ro (best light 8–10 AM).

Rent a city bike (Ddareungi) for about $1.50 per hour via kiosk or app; private riverside rentals are around $3–5 per hour.

Watch buskers in the evenings near the park.

Browse IFC Mall for shopping and cafes steps from the petals.

Commission a caricature along the festival route for about $11–$15.

Food Finds

Spring is street-snack season. Look for tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes, $3–$4), hotteok (sweet stuffed pancakes, $2), kimbap (veggie rolls, $3–$4), fishcake skewers with broth ($2), and tornado potatoes ($3). Convenience-store picnic sets near Yeouinaru make budget-friendly riverside meals.

Photo Tips

Morning golden hour softens crowds and light.

Bring a light jacket; riverside breezes can be cool.

A compact tripod helps with evening blossom lights.

Pack a picnic mat ($2–$4) from convenience stores for lawn lounging.

Nearby Blooms

Namsan: Take the Namsan Sunhwan shuttle (about $2.30 round trip) to hop between viewpoints and petal-lined paths.

Kyung Hee University: Enter via the main gate; stroll the grand avenue and side roads. Free entry; mid-morning is quietest.

Changgyeonggung Palace: Entry about $0.75; blossoms drape traditional roofs for elegant photos.

Han River Cruise

Short cruises depart from Yeouinaru Pier starting around $14–$16 for 40–70 minutes. Sunset departures offer the best city colors and reflections. Book at pier kiosks; bring a light layer for the deck.

Sample Budget

Subway rides (round trip): $2.30

Street foods and snacks: $6

Bike rental (1–2 hours): $4

Caricature keepsake: $11

Optional cruise: $16

Estimated total day out: $23–$39, depending on extras.

Timing Tips

Bloom timing shifts yearly; monitor local forecasts 1–2 weeks out.

Weekdays are significantly calmer than weekends.

Temporary road closures around Yunjung-ro may occur; follow event signage to detours and crossing points.

Where To Stay

Yeouido area: business hotels from about $90–$140 per night; easy festival access.

Mapo/Hongdae: lively neighborhood with guesthouses from about $50–$80; two to three subway stops away.

Myeongdong/Jongno: central for palaces and shopping; mid-range hotels about $80–$120.

Practical Notes

Restrooms: in Yeouido Park, IFC Mall, and temporary festival facilities.

Accessibility: Yunjung-ro sidewalks are mostly flat; visit earlier for smoother passage through crowds.

Litter rules: pack trash to marked bins; park staff keep grounds tidy.

Conclusion

Spring in Seoul is pure magic—petal tunnels on Yeouido, serene palace courtyards, and sunset strolls by the Han. With easy subway access, low-cost eats, and plenty of free activities, you can savor peak bloom without stressing your budget. Lykkers, which would you choose first: a sunrise walk through the blossom tunnel, or a golden-hour cruise watching petals drift across the river?